The Ministry of Health and Medical Services has reported six cases of mother-to-child HIV transmission this year. Dr. Rachel Devi, head of Family Health, indicated that approximately 13 cases have been recorded so far in 2023.
Dr. Devi emphasized the importance of antiretroviral therapy for HIV-positive mothers, stating that treatment can effectively prevent the transmission of the virus to their children. She mentioned that if a mother who is HIV positive receives the appropriate treatment, the risk of passing the virus to the child at birth is significantly reduced, leading to negative test results for the newborn.
Comparing current statistics with the previous year, Dr. Devi noted that the numbers appear similar, though slightly lower. By the end of the year, more comprehensive data will be available. The Ministry is focused on ensuring that all pregnant women undergo testing to know their HIV status and receive necessary treatment to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
Dr. Devi also addressed the association between other forms of HIV transmission and the sharing of needles among individuals, referred to as “bluetoothing.” She explained that injectable drug use contributes to the spread of HIV in Fiji.
She urged HIV-positive mothers to seek testing and begin antiretroviral therapy as soon as possible to lower the chances of transmission to their babies. Dr. Devi highlighted that reducing the viral load benefits the mother’s health and decreases the likelihood of transmission.
In a recent report, the Ministry revealed that out of 552 new HIV cases recorded between January and June, 85 individuals identified as injectable drug users.